Over 50 years ago, Cremona Violins was created with the vibrant educational community in mind. We wanted to meet or exceed the needs of parents, students, and teachers at every level. Each instrument is rooted in a tradition that started centuries ago in Italy, the birthplace of violin making. It's still known for producing the finest, best-sounding, and most valuable instruments ever made. Since we started, Cremona violins have been considered pioneers in the development of educational string instruments. We were one of the first American companies to import violins directly from China for distribution in the USA and to over 50 countries worldwide. To this day, Cremona remains a leading brand that many have tried to imitate. Cremona has also made many “industry firsts.” We introduced traditional Italian violin construction techniques to China, used exotic hardwoods for fittings, sourced tonewoods globally, and even got bridges from France. We also use premium strings. All of this was done to offer the finest orchestral string instrument outfits that anyone could afford. Cremona has also played a key role in defining international sizing and specification standards as required by educators around the world. We follow MENC mandates and recommendations from experts in the field. Using this knowledge and expertise, our luthiers continue to focus on quality and value by perfecting traditional finish techniques, refining production processes and distribution methods. We're solidifying our stellar reputation in the now crowded field of educational string instruments. Some of the things that make us successful include hand-crafted instruments with lightweight construction and meticulous attention to every detail. We ensure quality workmanship, exceptional tone, playability, and value that exceeds the expectations of parents, teachers, and students everywhere. Each Cremona Outfit or Bundle comes with everything you need to become a virtuoso, like top-notch Prelude strings when you get it set up in our US workshop. You'll also get a sturdy and reliable Brazilwood bow, rosin, and a lightweight case that's tough, reliable, and easy to carry. Plus, if you're looking for even more accessories to make your playing experience even better, check out Cremona's new Orchestral Bundles (available in some models). They've got a lightweight shoulder rest for comfort and an extra set of Anton Breton Perlon strings to make your strings even better.